The South African Weather Service has issued two alerts for severe thunderstorms and large amounts of hail, lightning and strong winds in parts of the Western and Northern Cape.
The alerts were issued on Wednesday and predicted that the storm will hit on Thursday afternoon and continue into Friday. The level two alert is expected to affect 10 municipalities across the four districts in the southern parts of the Western Cape. At least five municipalities in the Northern Cape will be affected too.
Another level five alert was issued for severe thunderstorms over the Hessequa, Kannaland, Laingsburg, Mossel Bay and Swellendam municipalities in the Western Cape.
⚠️A steep upper air system will cause widespread thundershowers over the western interior tomorrow (21 October 2021) spreading to the south coast. Some of these storms may produce torrential showers leading to flash flooding, large amounts of small hail and gusty winds. pic.twitter.com/b27fncUGDK
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) October 20, 2021
“With localised flooding/flash flooding and short term disruptions to essential services are expected over the Namakwa District (Northern Cape) as well over the Central Karoo, Garden Route, most of the Cape Winelands and Overberg (regions in the Western Cape) on Thursday into Friday morning,” read the alert.
Damage to homes and buildings as well as short-term disruptions to essential services were expected due to lighting, large amounts of hail and strong gusty winds, the alert said.
“Flooding/flash flood of susceptible roads and low-lying areas and bridges are also possible due to heavy downpour which can also contribute to minor vehicle accidents due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.”
The weather bureau has advised residents to stay indoors where possible and away from metal objects and refrain from seeking shelter under trees or tall objects.
“Be aware that any combination of hail, strong winds and or heavy downpours can accompany the storms,” concluded the alert.